Avoid short-term dev’t plans in election years – Economists urges governments

The Head of the Economics Department at the University of Ghana, Prof. William Baah-Boateng, has said one of the ways for Hana to leapfrog interns of development for governments to have long-term plans for development projects.

He observed that pressure from electorates especially in election seasons, often compels governments to embark on unsustainable projects that are short-term in nature.

Speaking at the launch of the CDD Manifesto Project to promote Responsive and Responsible Manifestos for Inclusive Development, Prof. Baah-Boateng said politicians must resist pressure from the electorates to pursue to avoid unsustainable short-term projects.

“What comes to mind is the traditional way of creating quality jobs because any time I speak to some of my senior colleagues, they tell me that in Economics, you have your utility function which has different elements. The politician also wants development, but wants development that the people can see directly. For instance, if somebody is having problems with the road in front of his house and you are able to provide the road, they see that as a direct immediate benefit than trying to give that person free SHS. That person will choose that one because he sees that directly than the need to educate your child,” he explained.

Ghana is due to go to the polls on December 7, 2020, although the outbreak of the novel Coronavirus outbreak has put a cloud of uncertainty over the process.

There is yet to be vigorous campaign activities in the country ahead of the national polls.

The Electoral Commission has also begun the process to compile a new voters’ register ahead of the polls despite criticisms from some members of the public as well as some opposition political parties.

Have comprehensive plans for funding manifesto promises – Technocrats urge political parties

Meanwhile, other technocrats who spoke at the CDD Manifesto Project launch, have reiterated the need for major political parties to design manifestos that address critical developmental issues such as job creation much more holistically.

The speakers at the launch of the CDD Manifesto Project, a compilation of issues and Evidence on Key sectors in Ghana, which seeks to promote Responsive and Responsible Manifestos for Inclusive Development touched on unemployment, gaps in the health sector, education, planning and urban development and governance challenges, and provided solutions for same.